ABERDEEN, S.D.(Press Release)- Aberdeen Fire Rescue has seen an uptick in illegal fires this spring. Open burning is not allowed in Aberdeen, per City Ordinance 24-111. The burning of vegetation or waste is illegal, and violators may be fined.

Fire pits are allowed, if they adhere to the conditions outlined in City Ordinance 242-113, including using approved fuel (firewood), constant supervision, properly located away from  combustible and flammable materials, and using approved devices. An extinguishing method must also be on hand, such as a fire extinguisher, sand, water barrel, or garden hose.

As of Monday morning, Brown County is under a burn ban, and all open burning is prohibited. The burn ban is in response to a red flag warning issued by the National Weather Service. Current weather conditions create a high risk of fire. Residents should take precautions in preventing fires and thoroughly extinguish existing fires.

During the countywide ban, fire pits are also prohibited.